Switzerland From East to West
Head west, taking in many of the highlights of the German and French-speaking parts of Switzerland. You'll visit prosperous Zurich, and the quiet scenery of lakeside Lucerne. You'll visit the remote village of Zermatt, which is car-free to keep its views of the Matterhorn utterly stunning, then visit Geneva, the "Capital of Peace."
The services we provide as part of our comprehensive packages include accommodations, train tickets, airport and train station transfers, city tours and day trips. In addition to the tours included, we can arrange a number of excursions based on your own interests. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.
One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to reach your JayWay tour manager throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 2-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.
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What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Zurich
Lucerne
Zermatt
Geneva
package excludes:
- Flights from and to your home country.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your destination-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.2 Nights in Zurich
2 Nights in Zurich
2 Nights in Zurich
Switzerland's largest city and main hub, Zurich is where many of the nation's bankers and scholars bump shoulders. This cosmopolitan city ranks highly in terms of livability, but for all its wealth and global prestige, the Old Town remains charming, if almost spotless. The ridges flanking Zurich's river valley offer romantic views, but the best way to hit the ground running in Zurich is to follow the river itself as it cuts through the Old Town, then meets Lake Zurich. Along the way, indulge in detours, from upscale chocolatiers to low-stress beaches.
Switzerland's largest city and main hub, Zurich is where many of the nation's bankers and scholars bump shoulders. This cosmopolitan city ranks highly in terms of livability, but for all its wealth and global prestige, the Old Town remains charming, if almost spotless. The ridges flanking Zurich's river valley offer romantic views, but the best way to hit the ground running in Zurich is to follow the river itself as it cuts through the Old Town, then meets Lake Zurich. Along the way, indulge in detours, from upscale chocolatiers to low-stress beaches.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Zurich
Upon your arrival to Zurich Airport, your driver will be waiting to take you to your accommodations.
Long Street, Long Night
Langstrasse in Zurich is a vibrant and eclectic district known for its lively atmosphere and diverse cultural scene. It's a hotspot for experiencing Zurich's nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines and entertainment options. The area also boasts a mix of trendy boutiques, street art, and historic architecture, making it an intriguing place to explore. Whether you're looking for a dynamic evening out or a glimpse into the city's multicultural fabric, Langstrasse is a must-visit.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Zurich
Zurich and Surroundings Private eTukTuk Tour
Zurich, with its captivating situation along the Limmat is a city worth discovering on foot, but even better on an e-tuktuk. Get your bearings on the surrounding hills and sights on the small e-vehicle in a smart and faster way so the rest of the day / night will be yours to be filedl with more experiences!
A Market Under a Viaduct
Zurich has plenty of shopping to offer. From luxurious design and "haute couture" to locally made goods and vintage finds. For a truly local shopping experience, though, stroll down "Viaduktstrasse", literally the street of the viaduct, where you'll find some peculiar shops and bars under the giant arches of this enormous structure. This is the so-called "Viaduct Market," and this shopping spot has locally designed and produced clothing that is good for any outdoor activities you may be planning on. It also has a fashion workshop run by a community of designers devoted to supporting young talent. Beyond clothing, you can find excellent local and international cuisine and plenty of memorable ways to decorate your home.
Day 3
Day 3 - Traveling to Lucerne by Private Transfer
Today a driver will pick you up at your accommodations and take you directly to Lucerne. The drive should take less than an hour.
2 Nights in Lucerne
2 Nights in Lucerne
2 Nights in Lucerne
If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.
If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.
Day 3
Day 3 - Arrival in Lucerne
Your driver will take you to your accommodations in Lucerne.
Lucerne Private Walking Tour
Discover the fascinating abundant heritage of Lucerne. Simply being there gives the feeling of being trapped in time, but strolling the streets and hearing true medieval stories from a local guide will definitely take you back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Eager to hear some recent history, art and culture? Your private guide is on top of these topics as well.
Day 4
Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Lucerne
Mt. Pilatus Is Golden
Experience five different modes of transport and one amazing mountain, all in one day! Take a boat from Lucerne, then conquer the amazing Mt. Pilatus via the steepest railroad in the world. After the breathtaking ascent, you will be rewarded by equally spectacular views from the top. Excellent leisure facilities await you at the summit, have some refreshments on the panoramic terrace or in one of the cozy restaurants. On your way back, descend with the "Dragon Ride" aerial cableway to Fräkmüntegg and finally take a gondola to Kriens. From Kriens, you can return to Lucerne on the modern trolleybus, thus completing the convenient circular journey.
Day 5
Day 5 - Traveling to Zermatt by Train
You can upgrade your transfer
Zermatt by Private Transfer
Upgrade for an additional cost
3 Nights in Zermatt
3 Nights in Zermatt
3 Nights in Zermatt
The destiny of the obscure village of Zermatt changed in 1865 after the Matterhorn was first summited. Although most of the brave mountaineers who tacked it did not survive, they attracted a wave of copycats, who took a liking to the humble village sitting beneath the mountain. Now you can comfortably get close to the Matterhorn itself, by taking the riding a cable car to the Little Matterhorn, the highest place in Europe reachable by transportation (and thus the continent's highest observation platform). Zermatt itself is car-free, to prevent air pollution from smudging its famed view.
The destiny of the obscure village of Zermatt changed in 1865 after the Matterhorn was first summited. Although most of the brave mountaineers who tacked it did not survive, they attracted a wave of copycats, who took a liking to the humble village sitting beneath the mountain. Now you can comfortably get close to the Matterhorn itself, by taking the riding a cable car to the Little Matterhorn, the highest place in Europe reachable by transportation (and thus the continent's highest observation platform). Zermatt itself is car-free, to prevent air pollution from smudging its famed view.
Day 5
Day 5 - Arrival in Zermatt
As Zermatt is a car-free zone, once you arrive at its train station, your hotel will arrange for you to be picked up by an electric cart and taken to your accommodations.
Dine and Unwind
Begin your stay in Zermatt with a delightful dinner at one of the Old Town's charming, traditional restaurants. After a satisfying meal, unwind at one of Zermatt's many cocktail bars or pubs, where you can enjoy live music in a cozy atmosphere. One of the unique charms of Zermatt is its ability to bring together adventurers from all over the world, including hikers, bikers, mountaineers, and paragliders, all of whom share a passion for the outdoors. Indulge in great food and connect with like-minded enthusiasts.
Day 6
Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Zermatt
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Self-Guided Tour
Take a scenic cable car ride from Zermatt to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for unparalleled views of the iconic Matterhorn. At 3,883m (12,740 feet), explore the world’s highest Glacier Palace and enjoy lunch at Europe’s highest mountain restaurant. After a short ride and a few steps to the summit, take in the Alps from the continent’s highest 360° viewing platform. JayWay will arrange your cable car tickets and offer detailed guidance for a smooth, self-guided journey to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
Day 7
Day 7 - Your Second Full Day in Zermatt
Gornergrat by Rack Railroad & Short Hike with a Private Guide Full Day Tour
Ride Europe's second-highest railroad to the Gornergrat, a spectacular ridge overlooking the Gorner Glacier, and 29 mountains, including the Matterhorn. At 3,000 meters (10,100) feet up, the Gornergrat Railway is the continent's highest open-air line, and uses trains with cogs between their wheels to prevent slippage. Enjoy our private tour with an expert guide explain the vista and take you on a short hike.
Day 8
Day 8 - Traveling to Geneva by Train
Today you're off to Geneva. Your hotel will arrange a transfer in an electric car to the train station. As there are no direct trains, you will need to change trains, likely twice. We have included second-class train tickets, but you can upgrade to first-class for an extra fee. The journey generally takes three hours, including at least one stop.
You can upgrade your transfer
Geneva by Private Transfer
Upgrade for an additional cost
3 Nights in Geneva
3 Nights in Geneva
3 Nights in Geneva
Switzerland's second city and main French-speaking metropolis, this proud "Protestant Rome" was once John Calvin's capital, but is now famous as the eminently livable "Capital of Peace." A cosmopolitan center of global diplomacy from the Red Cross to much of the UN, Geneva is the scenic spot where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. The watchmaker's Mecca, Geneva offers impressive shopping and fine dining, but one of the best activities is free: walking through the Old Town and by the lake. Most of the city is reminiscent of France (which nearly surrounds it) although the more bohemian Carouge district draws plenty of locals thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere. An hour's drive away, Mont Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) is easy to spot.
Switzerland's second city and main French-speaking metropolis, this proud "Protestant Rome" was once John Calvin's capital, but is now famous as the eminently livable "Capital of Peace." A cosmopolitan center of global diplomacy from the Red Cross to much of the UN, Geneva is the scenic spot where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. The watchmaker's Mecca, Geneva offers impressive shopping and fine dining, but one of the best activities is free: walking through the Old Town and by the lake. Most of the city is reminiscent of France (which nearly surrounds it) although the more bohemian Carouge district draws plenty of locals thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere. An hour's drive away, Mont Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) is easy to spot.
Day 8
Day 8 - Arrival in Geneva
Upon your arrival to Geneva's main train station, we'll arrange for a driver to pick you up and take you to your accommodations.
The French-Italian Touch
Today, why not explore Carouge, a charming part of Geneva inspired by the style of Nice and once an independent trading town? Its Old Town, "Le Vieux Carouge," offers a delightful blend of French and Italian architecture, reflecting its Mediterranean cultural ties. The atmosphere is equally captivating, as this former trade hub is still home to a vibrant community of craftsmen and artisans creating traditional handmade goods. Lined with lively antique shops, bars, restaurants, and cafés on streets reminiscent of Sardinia, Carouge exudes a bohemian charm that promises a memorable visit. Make sure to stay for dinner or spend an evening at the lively Chat Noir jazz club for an unforgettable experience!
Day 9
Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Geneva
Geneva Old Town Private Walking Tour
Humanitarian Geneva
Day 10
Day 10 - Your Second Full Day in Geneva
A Cornucopia of a City
One more sophisticated activity for your stay in Geneva: dining. Add a chocolate workshop to your day, provided by many traditional local manufacturers like Du Rhone, or just pop in a flagship chocolate shop to gain extra energy from Teuscher's champagne chocolate egg truffles or at Favarger's chocolate tasting bar. Enjoy a homemade cheesy dish with a fondue or a raclette workshop at the Edelweiss Hotel. If you're longing for fine dining at the end of the day, we can reserve a table for you. To accompany your dishes with Swiss wine, ask the waiter to pour you some Chasselas for some local taste, and continue with a good old Chardonnay. If reds are more to your liking, try the local Gamay and Pinot Noir.
Day 11
Day 11 - Departure Day
Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
Average of our Guest's Ratings of tour packages including these destinations
I think you should just keep doing things the same way - everything was great!
– Dan & Roz, California
Visited : Switzerland, Austria
Itinerary : Lucerne, Zermatt, Interlaken, Zurich, Innsbruck, Salzburg
Rating :
We have taken three trips so far with JayWay, which says it all but I'll continue anyway. On this trip, our US contact, Art, provided us with excellent recommendations for all of our wishes. If you want to travel stress-free, with amazing support, and the best possible options made available to you, use JayWay Travel! We love them!
– Nancy & Babette, California
Visited : Switzerland, Italy
Itinerary : Geneva, Lucerne, Como, Milan
Rating :
Attentive individuals who go out of their way to provide experiences one will remember for a lifetime.
– Philip, Elizabeth & Alexander,
Visited : Germany, Switzerland
Itinerary : Munich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Zurich
Rating :